Due to the Covid-19 pandemic and following lock-downs, working from home has more and more become the new normal. From one moment to the next, millions were dramatically forced to change their lives by working from home full time.

Even so, what was initially an imperative necessity quickly shifted into a lifestyle and a possibility to enjoy a better quality of life… But why stay in your own country? Why not go on a new escapade and enjoy what the world has to offer?

Some who have formulated these questions have moved to Madeira, a top destination in Europe for those who enjoy the benefits of working from home.

A fresh era of “digital nomads”

Last year, working from home has become a decision-making for many professionals who never considered this lifestyle before. Both employers and employees have learned from this experience, and now the world shares a more optimistic view on working from home.

One of the reasons behind the rising popularity of working from home is that you’re not tied to one place. With more flexibility to select where you can live and less commuting, the improvement in work-life balance became evident.

Working from home while journeying or living overseas is now seen as an alternative to explore the world and follow our dreams! And the best part: we only need a laptop computer and a decent Internet connection to make this desire a reality.

Although some digital nomads continuously travel while working in hotel rooms, Airbnb flats, or at Internet cafés and co-working spaces, others like to be a little less “nomadic” and stay longer in each place. In some situations, this option has extra benefits, such as tax incentives, a lower cost of living as well as investment opportunities where it is possible to generate a good return on your money.

Why is Madeira so favourite for digital nomads?

Among the most sought-after countries by digital nomads is Madeira, and this huge interest was there long before the changes brought about by Covid-19.

Madeira has been hugely popular for many years due to several factors:

• Inexpensive cost of life: Madeira is inexpensive, comparability to other Western European countries with similar quality of life. From restaurants to healthcare and housing costs…

How much does it cost to live in Madeira?

There are many reasons why Madeira is considered one of the best places in the world to live in. The extremely affordable cost of living is just one of them…

• Good location: Living in Madeira makes it possible to travel between European countries quickly and cheaply, and several international flights every day also make travelling to the airport.

• Delightful traditional food: Made with old-fashioned flavours and the freshest produce, cuisine is also one of the region’s strongest points! The food scene in Madeira is surprising, both for five-star dining or a simple “prato do dia” at a local “tasca“.

• Marvelous climate: With more than 300 days of sunshine per year and gentle temperatures in practically all seasons, Madeira is perfect for anyone who loves to be outdoors.

• Pleasant natural landscape: Whether you prefer the green of the inland mountains or the intense blue of the coastline, Madeira has plenty of fresh air and breathtaking scenery for all tastes and lifestyles.

• History, culture and traditions: From all island you will also find an endless quantity of things to see and do! There is a large variety of museums, monuments, events and leisure activities to discover all year long.

• Welcoming ambience: Considered one of the safest and most welcoming regions in the world, Madeira embraces everyone with open arms. And even if you don’t know the language, most of the people speaks English and is very accepting of different cultures and nationalities.

• Tax incentives for foreign residents: Special tax strategies such as the NHR (Non-Habitual Resident Status) allow residents of specific professional areas to qualify for very attractive tax benefits.

Finding a home in Madeira to work remotely

One of the biggest vantages of living in Madeira to work remotely is that there are options for every budget!

Funchal is probably the first place that pop into your head when you first think of living in Madeira. Although it is a great option for living and working remotely, it’s also the most expensive city to live in Madeira due to the big popularity. Fortunately, there are many other options and, in some cases, most likely better suited to your needs and lifestyle.

One region you should consider is the Southwest of Madeira, known as the warmer coast. Located near Funchal, this part of the island is less touristy, although it has a lot to offer. In addition to beaches, quaint fishing towns, a beautiful natural landscape and a vibrant cultural scene, this part is more affordable. If you’re looking for a laid-back lifestyle in Madeira, with excellent infra-structures and quality of life, this is the ideal place to find it!

If for you the most fundamental thing is warm weather all year round and relax after a day of work, then Ponta do Sol is an excellent option as they have the Digital Nomads Village as well.

Must-haves in your Madeiran home-office

When selecting a home in Madeira to work remotely, some features that your home should include are:

• Good Internet access – This is likely the most important thing when working from home. Luckily, it isn’t a problem in Madeira. Before renting a flat or villa in Madeira, make sure that the Internet connection where the place is located meets your needs.

• Natural light – Since natural light has a major impact on your mental and physical health, choosing a flat with large windows is also a heady decision. Natural light increases your energy and will give you more positive feelings. This is essential when you’re working from home. With more than 300 days of sunshine per year, Madeira is an ideal place to love working with your laptop in the garden or on your terrace.

• Proximity to the nature – A close connection with nature will also have a huge impact on your mental health and physical well-being. Think about jogging on the beach, or enjoying a private pool and garden whenever you want to? Being in contact with nature will reduce your stress levels, so choose a home where you can open your window or step outside whenever you need a break from work.

• An ideal space to work – When buying/renting a home in Madeira for working, it is also wise to decide in advance what living space you need to make your home-office work for you. Ask yourself whether you need a separate room to work in, or whether you’re keen to have more flexibility and be able to move around the house.

No matter of your job, age, family or the time you intend to spend in Madeira, one thing we can promise you: here, you will find all the conditions to benefit from a better quality of life.